Job Description

The University has been awarded funds from the Industrial Biotechnology Innovation Catalyst (IBIC) to support a short-term project, in collaboration with Imperagen, a spin-out from The University of Manchester's Manchester Institute of Biotechnology (MIB). Imperagen has developed a platform technology to accelerate enzyme development and support sustainable bio-based products and processes. To support commercial activity, Imperagen seeks a short-term secondment of a University staff member to assist with market research and business development, engaging with customers in chemical manufacturing while exploring new opportunities.


This position will be based in the Manchester Institute of Biotechnology (MIB) and at Imperagen's Manchester premises. The MIB is a cross-disciplinary research centre that brings together more than 400 researchers with expertise in the foundational sciences supporting industrial biotechnology, including: molecular biology; chemistry; biochemical-engineering; materials science; synthetic biology; analytics and computer science.


The successful applicant should have a strong background in biocatalysis and directed evolution and a good understanding of the industrial biotechnology sector. Candidates should have or expect to attain a PhD and have a thesis submitted prior to taking up the position.

Overall Purpose of the Job

The role will involve identifying key players and mapping opportunities in industrial biotechnology, with a focus on enzyme engineering. The project will deliver a stakeholder database and market assessment report, providing insights into global trends and partnerships. This collaboration will drive growth for Imperagen, facilitate knowledge exchange, and strengthen links between the University, IBIC, and the company.


The research associate will work under the supervision of Prof Aline Miller and alongside Imperagen's commercial team, gaining valuable non-laboratory based business experience and an insight into the commercial environment.

What you will get in return:

Fantastic market leading Pension scheme Excellent employee health and wellbeing services including an Employee Assistance Programme Exceptional starting annual leave entitlement, plus bank holidays Additional paid closure over the Christmas period Local and national discounts at a range of major retailers

As an equal opportunities employer we support an inclusive working environment and welcome applicants from all sections of the community regardless of age, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender expression, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation and transgender status. All appointments are made on merit.


Our University is positive about flexible working you can find out more here


Hybrid working arrangements may be considered.

Please note that we are unable to respond to enquiries, accept CVs or applications from Recruitment Agencies.

Any CV's submitted by a recruitment agency will be considered a gift.

Enquiries about the vacancy, shortlisting and interviews:

Name: Prof Aline Miller


Email: Aline.Miller@manchester.ac.uk

General enquiries:

Email: People.recruitment@manchester.ac.uk

Technical support:

https://jobseekersupport.jobtrain.co.uk/support/home

This vacancy will close for applications at midnight on the closing date.

Please see the link below for the Further Particulars document which contains the person specification criteria.

Please be aware that due to the number of applications we are unfortunately not able to provide individual feedback on your application.